Mostarda di Cremona Recipe
Category: Sauces and Condiments
Serves: 3
A burst of sweet and spicy Italian tradition, Mostarda di Cremona is a vibrant condiment that pairs perfectly with cheeses, roasted meats, and charcuterie boards. This timeless recipe blends candied fruits with a kick of mustard, offering a bold and flavorful accompaniment to elevate your meals.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 400g |
| Mustard Essence | 10g |
| Apples | 100g |
| Pears | 100g |
| Pineapple | 100g |
| Cherries | 100g |
| Apricots | 100g |
| Peaches | 100g |
| Figs | 50g |
| Mandarins | 100g |
| Oranges | 50g |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~90g |
| Sugars | ~85g |
| Protein | ~1g |
| Fat | ~0g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~4g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Begin by thoroughly washing all the fruits to remove any dirt or impurities. If any fruits have pits, such as cherries or apricots, carefully remove them. For larger fruits like apples, pears, and peaches, peel if necessary and chop them into rough, bite-sized pieces. Smaller fruits like figs and mandarins can be left whole or halved for a more rustic look.
Step 2: Create the Syrup
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the sugar with 250ml of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Bring the syrup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 3: Candy the Fruits
Add the prepared fruits to the syrup in batches, starting with the firmer fruits like apples and pears, which require longer cooking times. Allow each fruit batch to cook for 5–10 minutes until slightly softened but still retaining its shape. Transfer the cooked fruits onto a tray using a slotted spoon, and repeat the process with the remaining fruits.
Step 4: Concentrate the Syrup
Once all the fruits are cooked, continue simmering the syrup until it thickens slightly, about 10–15 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
Step 5: Add the Mustard Essence
Carefully stir in the mustard essence, adjusting the amount to suit your preferred level of spiciness. Be mindful, as mustard essence can be quite potent, so it’s best to start with less and add more as needed.
Step 6: Assemble the Mostarda
Place the candied fruits into sterilized glass jars, arranging them in colorful layers for an appealing presentation. Pour the mustard-infused syrup over the fruits, ensuring they are completely submerged. Seal the jars tightly with lids.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Allow the Mostarda di Cremona to rest in a cool, dark place for at least 24 hours before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve as a condiment alongside your favorite cheese platter or as an accompaniment to roasted meats.
Tips for Success
- Fruit Selection: Choose ripe yet firm fruits to ensure they hold their shape during the cooking process.
- Sterilizing Jars: Properly sterilize the jars to prevent contamination and prolong the shelf life of your mostarda.
- Storage: Store the sealed jars in a cool pantry or refrigerator. Once opened, consume within 1–2 weeks.
Experience the authentic flavors of Italy with this Mostarda di Cremona recipe, a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire!
